Clinical Characteristics of Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia in Brazil: A Series of 59 Patients

Abstract

Introduction: Clinical characteristics of frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) have been studied since its description in 1994 in Europe, North America and Australia, and the present study is the largest on FFA features in Latin America. Methods: This study, through questionnaire and medical records, describes characteristics of a Brazilian population of 59 patients with FFA, concerning clinical forms, individual features and use of cosmetic products. Results: Mean patients’ age was 58.4 years (range 35-84y). Duration of disease varied from six months to 20y (median 5y). Most women were postmenopausal (83.1%) and non-smokers (83.1%). Five percent had at least one associated autoimmune disease, most commonly hypothyroidism (13.6%). Six of 40 patients (15%) had lichen planus pigmentosus and ten had facial papules (25%). Eyebrow alopecia occurred in 50 (84.7%), and body hair loss in 47 (79.7%). Facial papules were more prevalent in premenopausal women. Conclusion: Studying FFA epide- miology may help understanding the pathophysiology of this epidemic disease and this study highlights similarities and differences to previously published studies in FFA, such as greater frequency in postmenopausal women, association with hypothyroidism and facial irritation with cosmetic products.

Keywords

• Alopecia/epidemiology
• Brazil
• Lichen Planus